In the past, Phytophthora Dieback has been known as 'dieback' and 'jarrah dieback'. Unfortunately, these names have contributed to confusion about the pathogen. For example, in other parts of Australia, the term 'dieback' is used to describe tree decline caused by such factors as salinity, drought or insect damage.

The disease affects a huge number of introduced and native plant species other than jarrah. Therefore, to overcome this confusion, the term Phytophthora Dieback is now used.